Beef Crisis Pleas Taken to McDonald’s Door

Their message, delivered in Kilkenny, was that the indifference shown by meat factories, food service businesses and retailers in standing back while farmers ‘take the full financial hit’ of the crisis was ‘totally unacceptable’

This betrayal has left farmers infuriated, said Irish Farmers Association (IFA) Eddie Downey speaking at the event.

“With beef prices down by €200 per head from last year and at incomes ranging from €9,469 to €15,595, as confirmed by Teagasc, livestock farmers feel angry and frustrated that their issues are being ignored,” said Mr Downey.

He added that recent factory price cuts are ‘unjustified’ as UK and EU prices were stable and recovering.

The issue a “hands on approach” from the government, said IFA livestock chairman Henry Burns.

“The Minister must ensure that there is strong competition and transparency in the beef sector. Cattle prices must fairly reflect market returns. We need a strong live export trade to keep a balance in supplies and support viable prices."

He said viable price contract from factories were essential as higher finishing costs loomed with winter approaching.